FORT EDWARD, NY – Family and friends gathered at a Fort Edward baseball field to remember a 13-year-old boy who was accidentally shot and killed this week.

Gary Cota loved sports, so it was fitting his vigil was held in the middle of the baseball diamond. Two circles of candles were formed, one around the pitchers mound and one around home plate.

Several young friends, classmates and teammates spoke in front of the large crowd, sharing thoughts, stories and prayers for Gary and his family.

“He had a beautiful smile, he was amazing, I love him,” said 13-year-old Breonna Diehl, one of Cota's best friends.

NEWS10 asked Diehl what Gary would say if he were watching from heaven. “I think he'd say Breonna cheer up, it's going to be ok, you know that you're going to be with me some day, he's just smiling down.”

Louis Cota, Gary's father, was thankful for all the community support. He said he hopes the vigil serves as more than just a remembrance for Gary, but a lesson for all families.

“I hope all parents and children that know about this tragedy take the opportunity right now to hug their kids, tell them that they love them one more time, or vice versa, take that opportunity because you never know when in life it's going to stop, and I don't have that no more with my son,” said Louis.